National Trust joins forces with Charity Sci-Fi of Corsham

Darth Vader and Daleks will mix with snowdrops and daffodils when Lacock Abbey gardens opens under the National Gardens Scheme on Sunday, February 16.

The National Trust has joined forces with Charity Sci-Fi of Corsham to hold a science fiction day to coincide with the Earth and Sky photography exhibition that is being staged until April 27 at the Fox Talbot Museum.

A trust spokesman said: “It should be really good fun with lots of dressed up characters to see. But if some people would rather enjoy the Open Gardens in a quieter environment, they are open on the previous weekend and Saturday, February 15.”

Lacock has escaped the worst of the wet weather that caused flooding in other National Trust gardens such as The Courts in Holt.

A spokesman said: “We had some problems with high winds but not with flooding at Lacock. We are hoping there will be a wonderful display of aconites, snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils.

“Visitors can also visit the botanic garden and greenhouse, medieval cloisters and see our magnificent trees. There are lots of paths so it is suitable for people of all ages and people in wheelchairs or with pushchairs.”

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The four Open Garden days run from 10.30am-4pm and cost £5.50 for adults and £2.75 for children. There will be no extra cost for the science fiction event, which runs from 11am to 3pm. Dogs are allowed and there will be plants for sale.

The Earth and Sky photography exhibition looks at the beauty of the sky at night.

The National Gardens Scheme has been running since 1927 and in the last ten years has raised more than £22m for charity.